Central London is the quintessential London experience. From the dazzling Fitzrovia to the well-connected King’s Cross, each area bursts with charm and offers easy access to the city’s most famous attractions. And with so many top-notch hotels to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest your head after a day of exploring.
A Luxurious Retreat in the Heart of Soho
Named after the 18th-century writer who once resided there, Hazlitt’s is a haven of peace nestled in the bustling heart of Soho. Step inside, and you’ll be transported to a world away from the city’s frenetic energy. The library and bedrooms are sanctuaries of tranquility, each room showcasing the building’s timeless charm. Cozy up in front of the drawing room fireplace, with a book from the hotel’s extensive collection of signed first editions and the resident cat, Sir Godfrey, keeping you company. To complete your evening, pour yourself a drink from the honesty bar, a delightful treat available to all guests.
Opulence and Glamour in Piccadilly Circus
If you crave a spot right in the heart of Piccadilly Circus, then the luxurious Hotel Café Royal is your ideal choice. Renowned for its extravagant French décor, this hotel is home to Akasha, one of the city’s finest spas. Pamper yourself with a hammam or hydrotherapy treatment, or simply unwind in the expansive swimming pool, a welcome escape from the bustling city outside. The rooms are minimalist and modern, featuring Carrara marble bathrooms, crisp color palettes, and integrated Bang & Olufsen sound systems. Don’t miss the champagne afternoon tea, served in the Oscar Wilde Lounge, accompanied by the soothing melodies of live classical piano music. The hotel’s captivating interior alone will make your stay a truly memorable experience.
Peace and Quiet in the City’s Bustle
Despite being situated between Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, the Assembly Hotel offers one of the most peaceful stays in Central London. Each room is soundproofed, ensuring a tranquil retreat, allowing you to enjoy both the central location and the peace and quiet. The hotel’s contemporary decor, with neon signs, oversized cushions, and cartoonish sculptures, is sure to appeal to a millennial crowd, and the superfast Wi-Fi will surely attract digital nomads.
A Tropical Retreat in the Heart of London
Everything about The Mandrake is a little out of the ordinary. From its name, inspired by a hallucinogenic plant, to its living wall in the lobby and jasmine-filled courtyard, this hotel provides an extraordinary experience. The Mandrake has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best boutique hotels in Central London, transporting guests to a tropical retreat rather than a city hotel. From the moment you enter through a dark tunnel and emerge into an urban rainforest, you’ll be captivated. Artwork adorns every corner, and the uniquely styled rooms allow you to choose a decor that suits your mood, whether you prefer the womb-like cosiness of the Mandrake rooms or the breezy chic of the Newman.
Accessible Luxury in the Heart of London’s Landmarks
Just a stone’s throw from iconic sights such as Trafalgar Square, The National Gallery, and Piccadilly Circus, The Z Hotel places you right in the heart of the action. The hotel embraces the concept of accessible luxury, offering comfortable rooms with all the amenities you need at lower-than-average prices. The rooms make clever use of space, featuring enormous beds, full-size en-suite bathrooms, and numerous hidden storage alcoves. Wake up at your own pace, savoring the dreamy beds and your morning coffee.
History and Heritage in Central London
The walls of Royal Horseguards could tell a thousand tales. Housed in the former location of both MI6 headquarters and the National Liberal Club, a favorite haunt of Winston Churchill, the hotel boasts interiors that pay homage to its rich past. Historical paintings of London and public figures, distinctive headboards, and heavy Edwardian drapes transport you back in time. For the ultimate experience, choose a room with views of the Thames, particularly the Riverview Royal Horseguards Suite, with its windows overlooking the London Eye.
Classic Charm with Modern Touches
Opened in 1908, DUKES has a long-standing reputation as one of Central London’s finest hotels. After a recent extensive renovation, the hotel embraces its early days with mahogany wood furnishings, gilded picture frames, velvet textiles, and an original wood-paneled lift. Yet, the hotel also boasts modern touches, like free Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art TVs, and marble en-suite bathrooms with designer toiletries. Nestled behind St James’s Palace, the hotel offers plenty of attractions in the surrounding area. Wine enthusiasts can spend an afternoon exploring the racks of Berry Bros. & Rudd, a 17th-century wine merchant, while royalists can enjoy the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, just a short walk away.
A Blend of History and Modernity
Built on the site of an old Scottish castle, this hotel began its life as the Metropolitan Police HQ before being transformed into a hotel. Today, the The Principal London pays homage to its fascinating past, with every aspect of the interior design reflecting its history. Artwork by prisoners involved in the Koestler Arts program, motifs of police uniforms and badges, and cupboards disguised as bookcases all tell the story of its previous life. Guests can browse a selection of books inspired by the building’s policing past, including tales of the Met Police investigating Jack the Ripper. The hotel’s drinking and dining options offer a taste of modern British fare at The Yard and strong cocktails at Sibin, a hidden whisky bar inspired by the illicit speakeasies of Ireland.
Indian Luxury in the Heart of London
Blending elements of East and West, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate is like a slice of India hidden within a Victorian-Edwardian building in the heart of London. Each luxury suite features plush bedding, mid-century-style leather sofas, and high-tech TVs, offering a sense of modern comfort. Moments from Buckingham Palace, you can watch the royal guards perform their daily ceremony or embark on a private shopping excursion around Central London, guided by the hotel concierge. The hotel’s diverse dining options are a culinary adventure, but the jewel in the crown is undoubtedly the Michelin-starred Quilon, serving a delicious and authentic South Indian menu.
Jazz and Glamour in Hyde Park
The building that houses this luxurious hotel has a fascinating history. Once the entrance to Hyde Park Corner Station, the building later transformed into a jazz venue, hosting renowned musicians like John Dankworth and Amy Winehouse. Today, guests can still enjoy live music in the Jazz Lounge as they savor their dinner. The hotel’s interior reflects its history, with a strong Art Deco focus and an unmistakably ritzy appeal. Many of the marble-clad bathrooms feature enormous roll-top silver baths and Hermes-branded toiletries. To top it off, the hotel offers a Rolls-Royce chauffeur service, the most glamorous free taxi ride you could imagine.
Scandi Chic on the Thames
The rooms at Locke at Broken Wharf exude a sleek, Scandi-like vibe, although you might not notice it at first glance. Located on the banks of the River Thames, the hotel occupies a former 1970s office block. Upon closer inspection, you’ll discover plenty of 21st-century updates. The common areas feature blond-wood furniture and butter-yellow sofas, while the rooms are painted sage green from floor to ceiling, complete with fully equipped kitchens and quirky touches like ceramic roosters. Stock up on fresh produce from nearby Borough Market and prepare a feast for a cozy night in.
